A COUNCIL is resorting to psychological tactics to convince speeding drivers to slow down - with signs that smile or frown at passing cars.

If a vehicle is within the speed limit, the driver will get a big grin from the electronic roadside signal, but a motorist travelling too fast will be greeted with a grimace.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council is putting the sign - nicknamed Smiley Sid - to the test on a road where locals have complained about speeding.

It will be tried out in different locations in the borough if the trial period is successful and could be extended to other council areas on Teesside.

The sign is due to be launched today on Saltburn Road, near St Peter's CofE Primary School at Brotton. It is then due to be moved to Guisborough, Easington, Saltburn and Eston.

Council cabinet member Eric Empson said: "These signs are a clear warning to motorists that they are creating a dangerous situation by exceeding the speed limit."

Redcar and Cleveland council was at the centre of a row over illegal signs six weeks ago when two police officers escaped speeding tickets by arguing they did not meet Department for Transport guidelines.

Research by the council shows Saltburn Road already has a "considerable problem" with speeding. A sample survey of 100 drivers revealed 66 breaking the 30mph limit and 15 exceeding 39mph.